Centres of Research Excellence Fund

2006 Expressions of Interest

National Institute of Animal Sciences, Engineering and Technology (NIASET)

Director:  Prof. Nigel French
Host:        Massey University

Partners:   National Centre for Advanced Bio-Protection Technologies
                 Lincoln University
                 National Research Centre for Growth and Development
                 Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
                 AgResearch Limited
                 Lancaster University
                 University of Liverpool
                 Institute of Environmental Science and Research

Abstract:

Many recent advances in nanotechnology, information technology, molecular biology and engineering have yet to be applied to farm animal systems and there is ample opportunity for novel, groundbreaking research in these fields. We propose a CoRE that will be the first internationally to focus on integrating these disciplines to provide technological and engineering solutions for livestock production. The potential to benefit the national economy is unquestionable: providing new tools for biosecurity will help to minimise the impact of exotic and endemic disease; and improving animal health and welfare will increase the efficiency, security and safety of food production, and thereby enhance international trade. We propose three platforms: Animal biosecurity - our economy is heavily dependent on maintaining a high health status for its animal populations. We aim to integrate surveillance with intelligent nano-sensors, robotic devices, new communication options and network analysis, to protect our economy. Animal health, welfare and sustainable productivity - we aim to apply new technology for the smart detection and early treatment of disease, to avoid animal suffering and to enhance sustainable productivity.  International trade and finance increasingly demand high welfare of production animals; this can be enhanced through new technology such as intelligent sensing devices. Protecting public health and the environment – food-borne and environmental zoonoses are a burden on the health service and have the potential to damage international trade and tourism. We propose an integrated, mechatronic ‘systems’ approach, providing advanced technological and engineering solutions to food and environmental safety. Sophisticated methods of pathogen detection and molecular characterisation will transform our approach to risk management and enhance the value, reputation and global competitiveness of NZ food production. In conclusion, this CoRE is uniquely New Zealand, will allow groundbreaking research at the interface of animal science and engineering and will aid economic transformation of our biological economy.